Spotter Magazine Issue 33 by 9H Media

KRIS CHRISTIAENS

WELCOME

Sometimes, it pays to take a step back and realise how far you’ve gone. Looking back at our early issues, I cannot help but admit they were rather primitive. But even then, people saw potential, lessons were learnt and experience help edraised the bar to the magazine we have today. Equally important, our network of contributors became a worldwide network. Thirty-three issues into this adventure, Spotter Magazine has been recognised by major aircraft operators, events, manufacturers, armed forces and airlines all around the world, allowing our volunteers to provide this worldwide spotting community with a wealth of interesting features. In this issue alone, we are reporting on major events from all over the world. The only exception was the Malta International Airshow, which did not deem us professional enough to merit press accreditation. No prophet is welcomed in his own country. As a result, we are not reporting on that event.

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COVER:

RICH COOPER

CONTENTS Marketplace

Kecskemet Airshow

90 Years of 15 Stormo

Buzzards over Hill

Poseidon 2021

The Last Tristars

Finnish Hawks

Heathrow Flashbacks

100

Pepe Ancira

110

Meeting Aerien Int’l de la Somme

120

CREDITS ARTWORKS: RICHARD J. CARUANA CONTRIBUTORS: PATRICK D’AGOSTINO - LAWRENCE BRINCAT PIERPAOLO MAGLIO - ROB VAN DISSELDORP ROBERTO CAIAFA - RICH COOPER - CLIVE GRANT PEPE ANCIRA - YOLANDIE GROBLER DE JAGER JAN DE CLERCQ

ROB VAN DISSELDORP

All photos and articles remain the intellectual and artistic property of the respective credited persons. All unauthorised reproduction, by any means, both printed and digital, is considered an infringement of this copyright and all remedies available by law will be taken against any infringements of such copyright.

MARKETPLACE

IRVIN JACKET FIVE-STAR LEATHER Affectionately known as the ‘Irvin Jacket’ this design was standard issue for RAF Pilots from 1932 onwards. Five Star Leather have acquired a reputation for excellence and value in reproduction aviation leathers, and their reproduction of the Irvin jacket does not disappoint. Based on a late 1940/41 , thus featuring a collar strap, which was intended to help keep the collar raised for open-cockpit flying. This feature was discontinued in later years. Jackets are available in a number of sizes, but can also be tailor-made to measurements supplied by the customer. Price:

$ 480.00

From:

www.fivestarleather.us

BBMF AIRCRAFT FLYINGRAPHICS Flyingraphics continue to provide us with an evergrowing range of aviation-related designs. Latest is a series featuring profiles of aircraft of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight by graphic designer and illustrator, Chris Sandham-Bailey of Inkworm.com. Chris is a regular contributor to aviation publications such as Aeroplane and Mortons Media. The range includes Lancaster PA474 which saw service in the Far East as part of the RAFs Tiger Force, a profile of Hurricane LF363 while operational off the east coast of Scotland, Chipmunk WG486 which is used as a trainer, Dakota ZA947 and Spitfire MK356. The designs are also available in A3 and A2-sized prints Price:

£ 24.00 (T-Shirt) £ 18.00 (A3 Poster)

£ 25.00 (A2 Poster) From:

www.flyingraphics.com

MARKETPLACE

F/A-18 TRIBUTE WATCH PITOT WATCHES Former RDAF aircraft mechanic Thomas Clausen is following up his successful F-14-themed watch with a new design dedicated to the F/A-18 Hornet. Like the F-14 watch range, the Hornet tribute watch is currently on two crowdfunding platforms, Indiegogo and Kickstarter, in order to raise sufficient pre-orders to develop the watches. Featuring a titanium watch case with Swiss Quartz movement , the watch will be available in three colour options, the original design, a variation inspired by the Blue Angels team, and another inspired by the Top Gun: Maverick movie. Price:

€ 225.00

Availability:

Late 2022

Available via:

www.pitotwatches.com

AIRSHOWS

Text: Photos:

Mark Zerafa Mark Zerafa

Asfter a long absence from the airshow scene, the Kecskemet Airshow was held once again this year, much to the delight of spotters who had missed an airshow on such a grand scale since the pandemic outbreak brought the airshow world to a halt.

Highlight of the Hungarian Air Force’s Gripen flight demonstration was the ‘dump and burn’ routine, where the pilot momentarily released the fuel dump valve, with the aircraft inverted to bring the dumped fuel to hit the aircraft’s exhaust plume, thus setting it alight in a short spectacular flame.

Hungary’s Mil Mi-24 Hinds are back in service after extensive refurbishment and modernisation, wearing this new grey scheme with toned-down markings.

The airshow at Kecskemet had long been held as one of the better airshows on the European airshow calendar. Last held in 2013, the organisers made sure that this edition would be worthy of the long wait. No less than four aerobatic teams were present, wit the Polish Orilik Team, Croatia’s Krila Oluje, the Royal Saudi Hawks and the Turkish Stars delighting crowds and spotters alike. The Hungarian Air Force was, as expected, out in force, with an inventory flypast displaying everything from its trainer Zlins to its VIP A319, its newly refurbished Mi-24s and the inevitable Gripens. The Gripens and Hinds were later back in action in the tactical demonstration involving the fair use of pyrotechnics and the judicious use of flares by the Gripens. Of particular note was that all five Gripens were loaded with different ordnance warloads, to represent different mission profiles. Having ordered two examples of its new transport, Embraer flew in witha KC390, which conducted a flight display on Saturday as well as some other flying in collaboration with the Hungarian military after the show days. Another new aircraft brought over by the manufacturer was the Aero L-39NG, which performed a flypast with a pair of Czech L-159s before making its own flying display. As the main provider of fast-jet equipment to the Hungarian military, SAAB had a strong presence with the Swedish Historic flight displaying both the Viggen and the two-seat Draken, the Swedish Air Force presented

a flying display with its SK60 trainer and the Czech Gripen complementing its Hungarian counterpart on the flightline. Further Czech participation included a paired display with a Mi -35 and a Mi-17, a rescue demonstration by a W-3 Sokol and a display by a pair of L-159 ALCAs, one of which was sportinga digital camouflage scheme.

The Italian Air Force wowed the crowds with the ever-favourite C27J Spartan together with the Typhoon and the M-346 Master. On the static park, an Italian AMX and Tornado were also present. Providing a flashback to Kecskemet’s past, the Romanian MiG-21 thundered through its flying display. Also representing Romania on the static park was a C-27J and an IAR-330 Puma. Further local flair was provided by aerobatic supremo Peter Besenyei, the Goldtimer Foundation’s Li-2, Komo Sky Team’s L-29 Delfin, and a sprightly performance of the Heliforce Mi-2, complete with smoke generators and pyrotechnics. In the static park, there were a number of delights, including a C130 and a KC-135 from the Ohio ANG complementing the Papabased Boeing C-17 from the NATO Heavylift Air Wing. A number of rarities were also on the static, with a Croatian OH-58 Kiowa and Mi-8, a Serbian Utva Lasta 95V-54. The support aircraft visits also provided a few surprises, including a Turkish Air Force C130B, a Serbian An-26, and a sharklet-equipped Czech Air Force C295M.

The Mil Mi-8/17 is the heaviest helicopter in service with the Hungarian Air Force, and can be used in both transport and attack roles.

Two former air ambulance AS350Bs were transferred to the air force. After being overhauled, they are mainly used for training and VIP flights.

The Airbus Helicopters H145M represents a quantum leap in rotary-wing technology for the Hungarian Air Force, providing increased awareness througha comprehensive sensor suite and greater automation allowing pilots more time to concentrate on the mission rather than flying the aircraft.

Local aerobatic hero Peter Besenyei in his Corvus MXS-R

Heliforce Mil Mi-2 provided a spectacular show with lots of smoke and pyrotechnics.

Hungarian Police McDonnell Douglas MD902 Explorer made a pass over the runway, clearly showing this type’s NOTAR (no tail-rotor) configuration.

Another proud local, the Goldtimer Foundation’s Lisunov Li-2, the only airworthy example of this type, made a welcome appearance.

The Kecskemet airshow has surely been a SAAB extravaganza, with a number of the Swedisg manufacturer’s designs gracing the flying display. Particularly welcome were the Swedish Historic Flight’s Draken and Viggen, which amply demonstrated the company’s radical approach to fighter design over the years.

Now in the twilight of its career, the Romanian MiG-21 amply demonstrated that this old warhorse can still put up a good impressive show. Moreover, it provided a flashback to many locals for when Hungary was a prolific operator of the MikoyanGurevich classic fighter.

The Czech Air Force’s Mi-35 fleet is due for retirement soon, to be replaced by the Bell AH-1 Viper.

Swedish Air Force SAAB SK.60 made a rare airshow appearance.

Czech Air Force L-159 ALCA sported a new digital camouflage scheme.

Due to serviceability issues, the RAF Typhoon display was performed by a 29 Sqn. aircraft in standard operational colours.

There was no shortage of aerobatic teams at Keckemet. The Royal Saudi Hawks and the Turkish Stars alternated between them for the closing display of the show, while the Polish team Orilik and Croatian Krila Oluje both performed polished displays in their turboprop trainer mounts.

New aircraft were also present, with Embraer KC390 not only participating in the airshow, but also performed trial flights anticipation of the type’s entry into service with the Hungarian Air Force. Aero Vodochody possibly in anticipation of the Hungarian Air Force’s requirement for a more modern trainer, presented the L-39NG.

The Italian Air Force was present in force at Kecskemet , with the Reparto Sperimentale Volo presenting the C-27J Spartan, the EF-2000 Typhoon and the M-346 in the flying display, and a Tornado and AMX in the static line-up.

There was no shortage of support aircraft, with a Romanian C-27J supporting the displaying MiG-21 whilst also being in the static line-up. Among the aircraft supporting the Turkish Stars was this Turkish Air Force C-130B. The Ohia ANG was represented by a C-130H and a KC-135. Royal Saudi Air Force Hercules made regular trips to Hungary in support of the Saudi Hawks. On the departures day, the Czech Air Force sent its latest CN-295 to collect equipment in support of the display aircraft.

Croatian Air Force OH-58 Kiowa was one of the exotica present at the show.

Croatian Air Force Mi-17

The Serbian Air Force sole An-26 visited before and after the show.

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Text: Photos:

Pierpaalo Maglio Pierpaalo Maglio

Formed in 1931 as a bomber unit, the 15o Stormo of the Italian Air Force was retasked with Search and Rescue in 1965. Currently headquartered at Cervia air base, the group’s units provide coverage of the Italian peninsula, while also preparing for wartime tasks such as Combat Search and Rescue, as well as ancillary missions such as aerial firefighting.

Current air assets of 15o Stormo, AW139, AB212 and EH-101 fly in formation at the opening of the flying display.

HELICOPTERS

Text: Photos:

Joe Cupido Joe Cupido

HH.139 MM81800 was unveiled with a special scheme to mark the unit’s anniversary.

15°Stormo was founded in Rome on June 1st, 1931. For its 90th anniversary celebrations, the base of Cervia opened its gates to a restricted number of journalists, photographers and retired personnel. After a brief ceremony at the gates, the visitors were moved to the flight line where a small static display had been prepared. On the tarmac there were types representing the Wing’s history since it started flying only helicopters: a fully restored, but no longer flyable, HH-3F was moved from the entrance of the base to the flight line to represent the more recent past. Then there was a grey HH-101A to represent the current bigger helicopter in use by 15° Stormo and finally a new HH-139B to represent the future since the Italian Air Force is going to receive 17 of these advanced variant of the HH-139. Later, an HH-212 from Decimomannu air base also landed on the flight-line and was shown to the public. Finally, the HH-139A, the current main helicopter in use by 15°Stormo for Search and Rescue (SAR) operations gave flying display.

HH-139 M.M. 81800/ 15-44 was unveiled with a special scheme (the very first time for a SAR helicopter in Italy) showing the emblems of all the Squadrons and Flights under the control of 15°Stormo. This is actually on of the larger groupings in Italy, as it comprises at least 10 units detached at several air bases all along Italy. During the display the HH-139A flew in formation with the HH-101 and the HH-212 and the HH-139B, then the formation broke off and MM81800 simulated the rescue of a downed pilot. While not up to the greatest open day, due to COVID -19 restrictions, the 29th June in Cervia has been a great opportunity to know 15° Stormo and all the helicopters types currently flying in the Italian Air Force.

NOSTALGIA

Now in the twilight of its career, the AB-212 has for many years provided excellent SAR service to the Italian nation. Past and present heavy SAR choppers on the tarmac.

The DHC-6 Twin Otter is used in support of Antarctic operations, with at least one aircraft always available at Marambio

Casualty winching demonstration with the HH-139

The HH-101 Merlin is a powerful and extremely capable helicopter used in both long-range SAR and CSAR roles.

HH-3F MM80989 was moved from its position as gate guard at Cervia to join its modern counterparts on the flightline.

Designated HH-139 in Italian military service, the Leonardo AW139 was designed to replace the venerable UH-1 Huey class of helicopters.

Spotter Magazine would like to thank the Commander of 15o Stormo for their kind assistance in the production of this feature.

ISSUE 27

MILITARYNOSTALGIA EXERCISE

Text: Photos: Text:

Rob van Disseldorp Rob Cupido van Disseldorp Joe

Photos:

Joe Cupido

In early August, aviation enthusiasts across Europe noticed a large group of 31st Fighter Wing (FW) F-16s heading During career UK. as an Aviation erupted Photojournalist I flew in and or piloted over 100 different to RAF my Mildenhall, Speculation as to where types of aircraft, theWas Piper J3 GREEN Cub to FLAG McDonnell-Douglas KC10 Tanker. I can’t really say these Vipers were from heading. it for at Nellis AFB, NV? Perhaps Eielson AK had for their RED place FLAG-in aviation, but I do feel that the followwhich aircraft I liked the best, AFB, they all ALASKA? Eventually, all speculation came to an end when ing article and images might not be my best work, but was the most important mission I think it became clear that the 510th Fighter Squadron (FS) I‘Buzzards’ flew. In so many waystoit Hill wasAFB justina Utah very to basic flight of a fighter type aircraft out on a normal were heading participate in WSEP-West, also known asdifferent Combat Archer/Hammer. training mission, but it was and very special .

WSEP-West is one of two major parts of the U.S. Air Force (USAF) Weapons Systems Evaluation Program (WSEP). It is a two-week evaluation hosted by the 86th Fighter Weapons Squadron (FWS) that takes place four times annually at Hill AFB. WSEP-West consists of two parts: Combat Archer, the air-to-air weapons system evaluation, and Combat Hammer, which evaluates air-to-surface weapons employment. Evaluators from the 53d Wing WSEP team assess the effectiveness, maintainability, and accuracy of the weapons employed by the participants throughout both events. On the flight line, this means that bombs are built and loaded under the watchful eye of the evaluators. Maintenance crews are graded on their efforts to keep the aircraft combatready and aircrew who deploy the weapons are evaluated on precision and accuracy.

The 510th FS prides itself on being a premier air-to -surface strike unit. To remain ready for that role, the Buzzard staff recognizes the need for live weapons training. The opportunities to employ live weapons near their home-base of Aviano AB, Italy are significantly limited, however. There are virtually no ranges in Italy and the Buzzards only have access to two limited ranges in Croatia and Slovenia. Lt. Col. Rolf ‘Nuke’ Tellefsen, 510th FS Director of Operations, was quick to act when he found out about an opening for WSEP-West. In February 2021, the decision to attend was made and Buzzards Project Coordinator and Fighter Pilot, Capt. ‘Miami’ Tise was tasked with planning the deployment. He says, "WSEP-West utilizes a bare-base support concept, wherein the equipment that we bring from Aviano is all that can be utilized during the evaluation. Therefore, important

89-102 wearing the new camouflage scheme being adopted by USAF F-16s, which is a single-tone darker shade of grey, with the radome retaining the original shade.

preparation begins prior to departure from Aviano to ensure we have the capacity to build, test, load, mission-plan, and employ all of these unique munitions.” This edition of WSEP-West took place from 16-27 August 2021. The Buzzards brought a mix of twelve F-16CM and DMs to Hill AFB. The Vipers were a variety of 510th and 555th FS aircraft. Flying them were 32 pilots, including four weapons officers and five instructor pilots. The rest of the group is fairly young and includes several first-assignment pilots. Capt. Tise said, "Working with live weapons is not something our first assignment guys get to do much at home station, so it’s an awesome opportunity for them. We had a lot of first-time shooters out here and everyone’s been learning a ton. "

Whether they admit or not, being able to work with live weapons is always exciting for aircrews. "We try to treat it all the same regardless of whether it’s simulated or live. That way, when we get to the live munitions, it should be transparent. There is definitely an extra focus from the pilot that he or she is actually carrying live munitions. When you are pickling a weapon, something actually falls off the jet, which is different from simulation. That’s one unique thing about this training," said Capt. Tise.

Participating in WSEP-West gave the Buzzards an opportunity to employ an impressive variety of weapons, including the AIM-120, AIM-9M, AIM-9X, CBU-103, AGR-20, GBU-10, 24, 31, 38, AGM-65, and the PGU-27 20mm bullets. The squadron was also offered the rare opportunity to employ three AGM158 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM). The JASSM is rarely used during live weapons exercises and most aircrews will only ever get to employ them during actual combat scenarios.

During WSEP-West, the main focus is on the employment of the weapons, not necessarily big-flag exercise type scenarios. Therefore, the majority of the sorties are flown in an uncontested environment. Capt. Tise explains, "They do add some scenarios to different drops, but really it’s about loading the munitions, including maintenance as well, so not just the employment but bringing the whole team together, from loading the weapons on the jet to the coordination and scheduling, and then the actual employment."

On the last day of WSEP-West, the 510th FS received their results and grades. The results of exercises like this provide the Buzzards with up-todate feedback on sortie and weapon success rates. For Lt. Col. Tellefsen, these grades give him a good snapshot of where the squadron currently stands. He explains, "Our number one objective coming here was to get the opportunity to go through, as a Buzzards team, from the building of the bombs, to the transport and loading of the bombs, the preflight of the bombs, to the pilots employing the weapons and all the realism associated with everything from cradle to grave of employing weapons and assuring that we can get our combat aircraft airborne. We’re trying to provide these guys with this experience, so if and when we do go to combat, it’s not the very first time they’re loading up a live GBU-31 and they already know that they’ve done it. So number one is the experience piece." He continues, "Number two is just from a unit preparedness piece. Yes, it’s an evaluation. There are people grading us all throughout this and you get a snapshot. We think we know where we are. We think we have an idea of our state of readiness and the state of every pilot in our squadron. We think we’re ready to do the job, but now we get a chance to prove it, and we may find little bits and pieces here and there where we may need to spend more time training. From an evaluation standpoint, we think we know where we are, but now we can see if there are areas where we need to focus on and spend some more time and effort." One aspect of WSEP-West that excited the Buzzards pilots is the airspace in Utah. Approximately 80 miles west of Hill AFB is the Utah Test and Training Range (UTTR). The UTTR offers exercise planners a total of 6,930 km2 of ground space and over 49,000 km2 of air space and provides several different bombing ranges that contain stationary

as well as moving ground targets. Just about any type of live weapon in the USAF arsenal can be dropped at the UTTR and the range also has the ability to launch target drones that linger over the range and can be used by aircrews as targets for air-to-air missile launches. To make life harder for the aircrews, the UTTR contains radio-frequency (RF) emitting threats that simulate various adversary surface-to-air missile systems. These systems have the capability to target the aircraft and simulate engagements. Capt. Tise explains, " Flying in the UTTR is amazing, the altitude, how wide it is, the threat emitters, it allows us to mimic the employment like we would when we are deployed. There are a lot of incredible opportunities out there on that range, like moving targets, etc., things that we really don’t get to see at our home station." Another major advantage of the UTTR is the short transit time between Hill AFB and the range, thus allowing the pilots to spend more time over the training area. Besides flying a number of Combat Archer/ Hammer sorties, the Buzzards are also flying daily continuation training (CT) sorties of their own. During the two weeks of WSEP-West participation the Buzzards expect to fly about 80 exercise sorties and 80 CT sorties of their own. The normal training sorties mainly consist of operating with the local 388th FW F-35As. Lt. Col. Tellefsen explains, "one of the unique things we have is called Fighter Integration, that 4th- and 5th-gen integration is something that we obviously don’t get to practice back at Aviano. This deployment is an opportunity for us to work some of the tactics in that we can only discuss academically back home." He continues: "when we are flying with F-35s, we look to optimize the ways in which our aircraft interact while airborne to take advantage of our individual strengths. Even with 5th-Gen aircraft, we find ways to complement the capabilities of each airframe." When asked how it is to go up against the F-35 as an aggressor, Tellefsen smiles and says, "difficult." During the last week of the Buzzards' stay at Hill AFB, the squadron continued with live weapons employment. Lt. Col. Tellefsen says: "In the last week we’ve been putting a little bit of everything together. So far we’ve been employing WSEP-West allocated weapons, but we, as a unit, also get allocated munitions, so we’re loading up our own munitions that we’re allocated in this fiscal year for

training. We’re putting everything together because we’re going to have Red air versus Blue air and actually carrying live munitions, fighting our way in to a target and dropping bombs. Now we’re taking everything we learned the last two weeks and combining it." These integration sorties consist of offensive and defensive counter-air engagements. The Buzzards' F-16s, as well as the local F-35s, are split up into Red and Blue air teams. A-4 Skyhawks and L-159s of civil contractor Draken out of Nellis AFB supplement the Red air team on some occasions. Capt. Tise said, "Two days ago I was a red air. Before the mission, we compared tactics with the local F-35s and really just learned from each other how we execute our separate 4-ship tactics. It was a 14 v 20 scenario, which is definitely a lot more than back home for us. It’s a lot of airplanes in one piece of sky. It creates an admin challenge: how do we safely execute this? And also a tactical challenge, because there are a lot of airplanes we can throw at the good guys, and how do we solve those challenges together?”

Aside from having to cancel some sorties due to bad weather during their first week, the Buzzards can look back on a very successful deployment. Many of the less experienced Buzzard pilots built airmanship by flying in different surroundings. They also came away with valuable live weapons experience. Meanwhile, 510th FS leadership has a good picture of the squadrons' state of readiness in case they are called into action. On Wednesday, 8 September 2021, the Buzzards departed from Hill AFB, but rather than flying back to Aviano AB, the twelve AVcoded F-16s headed south to Nellis AFB (NV) where the Buzzards will continue their training and take part in a GREEN FLAG exercise.

Spotter Magazine would like to thank Lt. Col. Tellefsen, Capt. Keane and Capt. Tise of the 510th FS for their amazing hospitality and insight. SSgt Halbert of the 31st FW, 1st Lt. Heflin of the 53rd Wing, Capt. Sumner and SSgt Trimble of the Hill AFB Public Affairs Office for making this visit possible.

HONOURING AN ICON

A limited-edition of 150 prints, incorporating a piece of skin from Super Guppy F-BTGV, the first of four Super Guppies Turbine built.

MILITARY EXERCISE

Text: Photos: Colour Profiles:

Roberto Caiafa Roberto Caiafa Richard J. Caruana

Operation ‘Poseidon 2021’ was an unprecedented exercise bringing together H225M helicopters from the Brazilian Navy, Army and Air Force, with the aim of achieving interoperability between the Armed Forces. Carried out between the last week of August and the first week of September, the exercise saw helicopters from all three branches achieve naval qualification aboard the “Atlântico” while sailing on the high seas. This is a historic landmark for military aviation in Brazil.

The Brazilian Navy is currently upgrading its Lynx fleet to Wild Lynx specification. Powered by two new-generation CTS800-4N engines, the helicopter featured a mew glass cockpit and more advanced navigational and combat avionics and sensors. This makes the new variant a much more capable weapons system in both the anti-ship and SAR roles.

The H-225M helicopters assembled on the coast of Rio de Janeiro before proceeding to the NAM Atlantico, with the ship manouvering at sea escorted by the F.43 Liberal. Both Air Force and Army aviation H-225s have foldable rotors, enabling them to use the ship’s elevators and underdeck hangar. Eight would operate from the Brazilian flagship during the course of the exercise, which also saw the deployment of the ‘Combat Divers’ special forces of the Brazilian Navy practicing ship-boarding operations using fast-rope techniques, and the Air Force’s PARA-SAR specialists practicing aeromedical rescue missions. With the NAM Atlantico having spent three months in port, all crews had to undergo qualification or requalification for shipborne operations, where the Army and Air Force pilot would also achieve this key qualification, under the guidance of a Navy instructor. After this, operational sorties could be launched from the ship whil sailing 50 miles off the Brazilian coast near Cabo Frio.

Among the participating H-225M units were the 1st BAvEx of the Brazilian Army (EB), the 3rd/8th GAV, the Puma Squadron of the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) and the Brazilian Navy’s HU-2 Pégasus Squadron. Additional air assets were employed, includingthe modernized AH-11B Wild Lynx aboard the Liberal, the SH-16 anti-submarine helicopters, the UH-12 Squirrel and the Jet Ranger training helicopters from the 1st Training Helicopter Squadron. Additionally, a pair of AF-1 Falcao fighters participated as Red Air, from their ase at Sao Pedro de Aldeia, providing a training opportunity for the warships in detecting and countering aerial threats. The air activity was supplemented by additional training, including damage control, gunnery practice, emergency training and simulating firefighting were also conducted.

The Brazilian Minister of Defense, Army General Walter Souza Braga Netto, the Chief of the Joint Staff of the Armed Forces, Army General Laerte de Souza Santos; the Head of Joint Operations of the Ministry of Defense, Admiral of Fleet Petronio Augusto Siqueira de Aguiar; and the General Director of the Management and Operational Center of the Amazon Protection System (Censipam), Rafael Pinto Costa, were received aboard the NAM Atlântico by the Navy Commander, Squadron Admiral Almir Garnier Santos, and by the Naval Operations Commander, Squadron Admiral Alipio Jorge Rodrigues da Silva. Together, these authorities monitored the operation from aboard the flagship. Poseidon 2021 saw the full interoperability of all three arms in sustained air poerations, by day and night, from an underway naval platform, using night vision goggles and within a tactical framework.

It was not just the flightcrew hat were put to the test. Logistical planners and maintenance crews had to ensure aircraft availability and serviceability in an increased operational tempo 50 miles offshore. As the largest warship in South America, much was expected of FAM Atlantico, and the exercise’s success left no doubt on the Brazilian military’s capability in conducting large-scale airborne assault from ships to land. Each wave of H-225Ms was a mix of different configurations, from troop carriers to anti-ship helicopters to ensure a successful insertion even in the face of opposition. Currently, the main setback for the Brazilian Navy is its lack of a logistical support ship which can operate internationally to replenish a task group, thus necessitating the need to use friendly ports for replenishment whilst on deployment.

Locally designated SH-16, the Sikorsky Seahawk is the main anti-submarine asset aboard the NAM Atlantico.

Originally purchased to serve aboard the Brazilian Navy’s now-defunct carriers, the AF-1 Falcos have been subject to a considerable upgrade programme.

INTERVIEW

REAR ADMIRAL JOSE VINCENTE DE ALVARENGA FILHO, COMMANDER OF NAVAL AVIATION

What are the expected deliveries of aircraft and aviation equipment destined for Naval Aviation in the coming months? By the end of 2021 we will receive the first two operational AH-15 anti-surface attack helicopters armed with Exocet missiles, a very important addition. With the arrival of the fifth AH-11B Wild Lynx for the HA1 in 2022, the Lynx Squadron will have greater operational flexibility after a long period with machines undergoing modernization in the UK. Now, in a transitional phase, pilots and crew are being trained on the new equipment. The Navy is awaiting the delivery of the first Scan Eagle systems from Insitu, and personnel from the air unit created to operate these SARPs are already in the United States making preparations for the shipment of this material to São Paulo. Pedro da Aldeia

Regarding the NAM Atlântico, which Naval Aviation units have already achieved the capacity to operate day or night with night vision from the ship? The Squadron Guerreiro (HS-1) had already been making a series of landings and takeoffs on board and now it has obtained night qualifications after an intense period of exchanges and training using night vision goggles with the Brazilian Air Force, which operates Black Hawk helicopters, the land-based variant of the Sea Hawk. The HU-2 Squadron, which is tasked with the transport of special operations troops and support to the Marines in amphibious assaults, trained with the 2nd Army Aviation Battalion in Taubaté, in the state of São Paulo, also equipped with the H-225M. By the end of 2021, the HS-1 is scheduled to embark with Penguin anti-surface missiles that will be fired after being installed in the flagship's hangar. So far, the SH-16 had only fired missiles operating from the G-40 Bahia.

What about the Antarctic Mission from the “Red Ships” convoy? The new H-17 helicopters are being used to train pilots and crews in specific aspects of the PROANTAR Mission (Antarctic support), with the additional challenge that the new aircraft are quite different from the twin-turbine Squirrels which they replace. Still in 2021, these helicopters are expected to support a new Antarctic mission, and aspects such as the ship's hangar, support material and on-board logistics are currently occupying the unit's planning.

The AH-11B awaits the selection of a new missile to replace the Sea Skua. Which missiles are being considered for the Lynx squadron? The HA-1 Squadron is currently in a critical phase of its transition, and the receipt of the modernized aircraft was prioritized over the issue of armament . We can divulge that three systems from two manufacturers are under study - Rafael’s Spike N-LOS and Spke Stand-Off, and MBDA’s new Sea Venom currently also being evaluated by the Royal Navy. However, our current priority remains the delivery of all our AH-11B Wild Lynx.

NOSTALGIA The H-XBR Programme Launched in 2008, the H-XBR Programme resulted in the license-production of the Eurocopter H-225M in Brazil by Helibras. Fifty of these twin-engine helicopters were ordered, to be shared between the Brazilian Navy (UH-15/A Super Cougar), the Brazilian Army (HM-4 Jaguar) and the Brazilian Air Force (H-36 Caracal). Budget restrictions caused the delay in the development of some versions, and after thirteen years, just over 40 helicopters have been delivered. In 2021, the Brazilian Navy should receive the first two AH-15B specialized naval variants, armed with a sophisticated sensor suite and Exocet anti-ship missiles. In an initial test, an Exocet has been successfully launched to destroy a decommissioned corvette.

A Brazilian Navy H-225M bristling with press photographers covering the action during the exercise.

Brazilian Army H-225M landing aboard the Atlantico

Spotter Magazine would like to thank the staff of the Brazilian Navy and the crew of the NAM Atlantico for their amazing help and hospitality in the making of this feature.

Text: Photos:

Mark Zerafa Mark Zerafa

The Falklands War put an extensive strain on the Royal Air Force’s inflight-refuelling assets, and consumed valuable flying hours on its Victor fleet. To bridge this capability gap, a fleet of nine Lockheed Tristar airliners was purchased and militarised for the transport and tanker role. They served till 2014, being among the last of the type to remain airworthy.

A society of 300+ like-minded aviation enthusiasts inte in East Anglia - RAF Mildenhall, RAF Lakenheath, RAF M and the STANTA range. Offering Monthly Movements - Ph its - Official Base Merchandise

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NOSTALGIA With the emergence of twin-jet widebodies in the eighties, the Lockheed Tristar was falling out of favour with the airlines, and the Royal Air Force was able to purchase nine L-1011-500s from Pan Am and British Airways. Of these, two were converted by Marshall Aerospace to tankers with passenger space and limited cargo capacity (Tristar K.1), three as pure cargo aircraft (Tristar C.2) and four multi-role aircraft which could be used both as tankers and transports (Tristar KC.1). All were operated by 216 Squadron at RAF Brize Norton. The fleet was widely used wherever the Royal Air Force was deployed, with two aircraft being repainted in desert pink for the 1991 Gulf War. Later, Tristars provided in-flight refuelling during the Bosnian War and the Kosovo War, and later over Afghanistan and Iraq and Libya. In 2007, the fleet began receiving a number of upgrades, including a glass cockpit. With the delays in the entry in service of the Voyager derivative of the A330, the Tristar fleet soldiered on till 2014, when 216 Squadron disbanded. After their retirement, six Tristars were flown to Bruntingthorpe, where they remain. Two were scrapped at Cambridge and another was scrapped at Cotswolds. The last six surviving Tristars await an unclear fate. Maintained by GJD Systems, they have been purchased in 2017 by Tempus Applied Solutions, an American defence contractor intent on using three as aerial refuelling tankers and the rest as sources for spares. American registrations have been applied to the aircraft, but they remain at Bruntingthorpe, where their future becomes even more uncertain as the airfield’s new owners are shedding all aerospace activity.

F-5EM streams its parachute in the course of its landing run. Using the parachute for braking saves wear and tear on the braking system.

A society of 300+ like-minded aviation enthusiasts intereste in East Anglia - RAF Mildenhall, RAF Lakenheath, RAF Marha and the STANTA range. Offering Monthly Movements - Photo C its - Official Base Merchandise

info@suffolkmilitaryaviationsociety.co

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info@suffolkmilitaryaviationsociety.co

ed in military aviation am, RAF Wattisham

Competitions - Base Vis-

o.uk

With an American registration applied and RAF markings painted over, the Tristars await their fate.

NOSTALGIA MILITARY

Text: Photos:

Mark Zerafa Rich Cooper

Finland was the first export customer for the British Aerospace Hawk trainer, placing an order for fifty Hawk 51s in 1977. The aircraft, mostly license-built in Finland by Valmet, entered service in 1980, replacing the Fouga Magister and the MiG-15UTI.

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Flying over a typical Finnish landscape, HW-343 is seen carrying a smokegenerating pod on the outermost wing pylons.

Now in service for 41 years, the first-generation BAE Systems Hawk was selected by Finland against four other competing types as its new trainer . With its number of front-line aircraft then limited to 60 aircraft by the Paris Peace Treaty of 1947, Finland saw value in the Hawk’s capability to carry armament if necessary, whilst still being classified as a training aircraft. The first of four British-built Hawks was delivered on December 19th, 1980, with all subsequent airframes being built under license by Valmet in Kuorevesi, Finland. In 1993, seven new Hawk 51As were ordered as attrition replacements, whilst in 2007, eighteen low-hour Hawk Mk.66s were purchased from Switzerland. After modifications and some updates, these entered service between 2011 and 2013. These are easily recognisable as they still wear the red/white scheme from their previous operators. The Hawk is used for the Finnish Air Force’s advanced and tactical pilot training programme. After transitioning to the jet, cadets are thought the basics of air combat, instrument, aerobatic, formation and night flying. They practice both air-to-air and air-to-ground operations prior to converting to the F-18 Hornet. Like their RAF counterparts, Hawks can be armed woth an Aden cannon pod under the fuselage centreline, heat-seeking missiles and bombs. Moreover, Hawks have also carried air sampling pods for specific missions, such as collecting air samples after the Chernobyl disaster in 1986, and later during the volcanic ash crisis of 2010. As the aircraft entered their first cycle of major maintenance in the 90s, fractures were found in the fuselage, leading to an extensive structural reinforcement programme, which saw the replacement of wings and tails, as well as strengthening of the fuselage. In 2005, the previously dispersed Hawks were centralised at the Training Air Wing at Kauhava following a shortage of flight instructors. In 2014, the Hawk fleet was reassigned to Fighter Squadron 41 based at the Tikkakoski Air Force Academy. In the early 2000s, Patria was contracted to modernise the Hawk fleet with digital glass cockpits, with an HUD and LCD displays, featuring a moving map display and a digital mission planning and debriefing system. More recently, the Hawk Link system was installed, transmitting location data between aircraft, which can then be displayed on the HUD, facilitating the simulation of more realistic air combat training. Further airframe strengthening was effected32 Hawks have been thus converted, namely all 18 Hawk Mk.66s, seven Mk.51As and eight Mk.51s. Of these two have been lost in accidents. The remaining aircraft are kept in storage, having been retired between 2012 and 2016 due to higher airframe hours. With the aircraft slated to remain into service beyond 2030, Finland’s Hawks are set to be the longest-serving aircraft in the air arm’s history, and may also be amongst the last of the first-generation Hawks to remain in service.

HW-340 leads a three-ship formation. In 2020, it was repainted in this special scheme to mark 40 years of Hawk operations in Finland.

NOSTALGIA

Text: Photos:

Joe Cupido Joe Cupido

During my career as an Aviation Photojournalist I flew in and or piloted over 100 different types of aircraft, from the Piper J3 Cub to McDonnell-Douglas KC10 Tanker. I can’t really say which aircraft I liked the best, they all had their place in aviation, but I do feel that the following article and images might not be my best work, but was the most important mission I think I flew. In so many ways it was just a very basic flight of a fighter type aircraft out on a normal training mission, but it was different and very special .

The Hawk is also the mount of the Midnight Hawks aerobatic team. Unlike the other two Hawk teams, the Red Arrows and the Saudi Hawks, the Midnight Hawks use wing-mounted smoke pods to enhance their display with smoke trailes, instead of a plumbed in system based on an Aden gun pod casing plumbed in to spray diesel oil onto the exhaust.

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Text: Photos:

Joe Cupido Joe Cupido

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Joe Cupido Joe Cupido

HW-354 is a former Swiss Air Force Hawk Mk.66. Ex-Swiss Hawks are easily recognisable as they still wear the red/white colour scheme of their former operator.

IT’S GOOD TO BE BA

GREECE-CYPRUS

LONDON HEATHROW WEEKEND

NETHERLANDS - FRISIAN FLAG

UNITED KINGDOM—ROYAL INTERNATIONAL AIR TATTOO

BRITISH MILITARY SPOTTING

RUSSIA - ARMY

GERMANY MILITARY SPOTTING

AUSTRIA - CZECH REPUBLIC

ACK!

It’s been a painful process for us as well, but now that the skies re-open, we’re going to do our best to give you back some of the action you have been missing all along. So, we will shortly be launching our tour programme for Summer 2021, including safe destinations and low-risk events. We will have small groups and will ensure maximum safety throughout the tours. Given the uncertainty of airshows actually happening, we will be focussing on military and civil spotting, with a dose of museums and wrecks and relics.

FRANKFURT WEEKEND JAPAN USA

9htravel@gmail.com

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Text: Text:Photos:

Mark Zerafa Grant Joe Clive Cupido

Photos:

Joe Cupido

Back in the seventies, Heathrow was already a hive of activity, but back then, planespotters had a much greater of as aircraft types to behold. This is a During myvariety career an Aviation Photojournalist nostalgic flashback to those glory days.

I flew in and or piloted over 100 different types of aircraft, from the Piper J3 Cub to McDonnell-Douglas KC10 Tanker. I can’t really say which aircraft I liked the best, they all had their place in aviation, but I do feel that the following article and images might not be my best work, but was the most important mission I think I flew. In so many ways it was just a very basic flight of a fighter type aircraft out on a normal training mission, but it was different and very special .

Possibly along with Concorde one of the most iconic aircraft to grace Heathrow’s tarmac was the VC-10. G-ASGR first flew in 1969, and later became ZD243 with the Royal Air Force.

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Japan Airlines used the DC-8-50 series on its routes to Europe, using a polar route.

Iraqi Airways Boeing 707-370C

Olympic Airlines Boeing 707-320 SX-DBD ‘Sparta’

DC-8-60 of Air Canada

Air Jamaica DC-8-60 6Y-JII started life with United Airlines and ended up flown by the Saudi Arabian Government. She was scrapped in May 1993.

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Handley Page Herald G-ATIG of Brymon Airways on short finals.

Boeing 727-82 of Portughese carrier TAP.

Merpati Indonesia Vickers Vanguard.

DC-10-30 of Viasa—Venezolana Internacional de Aviacion.

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Ilyushin Il-18 of Polish carrier LOT taxiing out with a Trident landing in the background

Yemenia Il-18B led an interesting life. Originally delivered to Aeroflot, it then flew for the Yemen Government and then to Yemenia before going to Balkan Airlines in 1984. Converted into a freighter, it flew for a succession of African airlines and was still flying in 2008.

Glass-nose Tupolev Tu-134A HA-LBI of Malev

LOT Tupolev Tu-134

Tarom ROMBAC 1-11 YR-BCH

Tupolev Tu-104 of Aeroflot

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NOSTALGIA SPOTTER ENCOUNTER

Text:Text: Photos: Photos:

Joe Yolandie Cupido Grobler de Jager Pepe Ancira Joe Cupido

Pepe, 36, lives in Monterrey, Mexico. He is married and is a

professional in theasfield Communications, having worked During my career an of Aviation Photojournalist I flew in and or piloted over 100 different in radio stations, production companies and advertising types of aircraft, from the Piper J3 Cub to McDonnell-Douglas KC10 Tanker. I can’t really say agencies before setting up his own production company. which aircraft I plays liked athe had their in aviation, but I do feel that the followPhotography keybest, part they in hisallwork, and itplace was only ingnatural articlethat anditimages might not be best work, but was the most important mission I think would also become hismy hobby. I flew. In so many ways it was just a very basic flight of a fighter type aircraft out on a normal training mission, but it was different and very special .

Pepe’s inspiration was his grandpa. A bus driver, he loved to spot busses, and Pepe followed suit, only that he focussed on the world of aviation. Besides aircraft, he also enjoys shooting landscapes, nature, animals, the moon, and holds a particular fascination for sunsets. Pepe is a Canon man, with an SL2 camera coupled to an array of lenses, including a 55-250 USM lens, a 28-135 lens and a 50mm lens. He then uses Lightroom for post-processing. Before heading to the airport, Pepe consults Wather APP, Flightradar24 and FlightAware to track the weather and incoming aircraft, as well as the runway that is currently in use. This allows him to choose the best spotting location for the prevailing light conditions. Having studied photography at university, as well as watching tutorials and discussing experiences with other spotter friends, he is comfortable shooting in manual mode, which always makes the end result feel more special.

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Aeromexico 737-800 landing into the sunset.

Viva Aerobus A321 landing against a stunning mountain background.

Some engine detail from the A320neo

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The ‘mask cockpit’ is the latest design trend in airliner liveries.

Aeromexico Boeing 737-800 on short finals.

AeroMexico’s brand new 737 MAX 9

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FedEx 767 up close on finals.

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AIRSHOWS

Text: Photos:

Jan de Clercq Jan de Clercq

Albert – Picardie Airport is an airport located 4km southest of Albert, in Bray-sur-Somme. This airport is primarily used for transportation of Airbus aircraft parts from the company’s factory at Méaulte. The airport runway is large enough to accommodate an Airbus Beluga, as it has been connected to aircraft production since its inception in 1924, when it was the site of Henri Potez’s aircraft factory.

Such a significant site so steeped in aviation history could not but host an extraordinary aviation event, with 120 aircraft in attendance. With the Patrouille de France setting the tempo with its arrival in the late morning, the flying display started with two formations, the first between a Yak-52 and a Yak-3 and a second with a Nieuport and a Stampe SV4. This was followed by a display of World War I -era aircraft, followed by the Armee de l’Air’s Extra 3330SC demonstration, followed by the Mirage 2000D and parachutists. These were followed by a pair of L-39s.

The Belgian Air Force then took the stage, with the Dark Falcon’s demonstration followed by the Razzle Blades A-109 Demo, followed by the Red Devils in their SF-260s. Not to be outdone, the Armee de l’Air demonstrated a pair of Rafales, followed by the impressive A400M solo display before closing the show with the Patrouille de France.

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Text: Photos:

Joe Cupido Joe Cupido

‘Vador’ taking the Dark Falcon through its paces.

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NOSTALGIA

Text: Photos:

Joe Cupido Joe Cupido

During my career as an Aviation PhotojournalistAIwealth flew of intypes andfrom or all piloted 100 different eras of over aviation were present. types of aircraft, from the Piper J3 Cub to McDonnell-Douglas KC10 Tanker. I can’t really say which aircraft I liked the best, they all had their place in aviation, but I do feel that the following article and images might not be my best work, but was the most important mission I think I flew. In so many ways it was just a very basic flight of a fighter type aircraft out on a normal training mission, but it was different and very special .

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Text: Photos:

Joe Cupido Joe Cupido

French-based Yak-3UWP

Sopwith Pup

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French Armee de l’Air CN-235NOSTALGIA

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Joe Cupido Joe Cupido

Apache Aviation displayed a pair of L-39s. Formerly flying as the Breitling Jet Team, the group faced difficulties after its main sponsor seems to be pulling out from all things aviation.

Dassault Rafale two-seater unusually carrying long-range underwing drop tanks.

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